Guides / Impacted Earwax
Why does earwax block my ears?
Why impacted earwax happens and what to do
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HOW IT HAPPENS
Earwax Blockage
Earwax (cerumen) build-up occurs when the ears produce an excessive amount of earwax and can't naturally get rid of it. Earwax is actually a part of the ears defence system, it helps to protect our ears.
If you regularly use hearing aids, cotton buds or even earphones, the risks of impacted earwax increases. As we get older, the structure of the skin changes and this can also mean more earwax production. For some of us, genetics plays a part and we produce more earwax because of it.
WHY IT HAPPENS
Why Do I Produce More Earwax?
It is normal to produce earwax, some of us just produce more than others. This can occur for a number of reasons. If you're unsure, you can get in touch with PinnaClear for a trained senior audiologist to examine your ears. You are at risk of producing more earwax if:
Reasons include:
You are over 60 years old
You use hearing aids
You have a skin condition such as eczema
Have lots of hair in your ear canal
You regularly use cotton buds in your ears
You regularly use ear phones
You are a regular swimmer - Using Swim Plugs can reduce ear related issues
OTHER REASONS
Genetic Differences To Earwax
Yes, there are genetic differences in the composition and consistency of earwax. The type of earwax a person has is determined by their genetics. There are two main types of earwax: Type A and Type B.
The gene responsible for these differences in earwax type is called ABCC11. The variations in this gene determine whether a person will have wet or dry earwax. Additionally, the same gene is associated with other traits, such as body odour.
It’s important to note that the type of earwax a person has doesn’t necessarily have any significant health implications. However, it can affect how easily earwax moves through the ear canal and may influence the likelihood of earwax-related issues, such as wax build-up. Individuals with dry earwax may be more prone to earwax impaction, as the drier consistency may make it harder for the wax to migrate out of the ear naturally.
Regardless of earwax type, proper ear hygiene is important to avoid complications. It’s generally recommended not to insert objects like cotton buds into the ear canal, as this can push wax further down and potentially lead to earwax build-up or impaction. If you have any concerns about earwax or related symptoms, get in touch with us for audiology-led guidance.
Wet or Yellow Earwax (Type A)
This type is dominant in populations of African and European descent. It is typically moist and sticky.
Dry or Grey Earwax (Type B)
This type is more common in East Asian and Native American populations. It tends to be drier and less sticky than wet earwax.
Having hearing issues? Talk to us
If you are struggling with impacted earwax, it is best to get your ears examined by a trained audiologist straight away. If you are not sure and want to talk to an audiologist first, get in touch.
EARWAX REMOVAL
Can I remove impacted earwax myself?
If you have a lot of wax in your ears it is unlikely to come out by itself. Avoid using cotton buds as this will push any wax further in and against the eardrum and you also risk perforating the ear drum, leading to long term damage and hearing loss. It is best to let a trained and insured audiologist first examine your ears and professionally remove the earwax. Book an appointment with our audiologist today!
20 Years of
clinical experience
Licensed and certified with First Class BSc (Hons) in Audiology
Trained in microsuction earwax removal & behavioural therapy for tinnitus
Experience working within the NHS and private sector
Rated Excellent
Very professional service, I had a lot of ear wax and also a funny sensation in one ear which Hafiza took the time to explain and show me what was going on. Professionally cleaned, my ears and I are very happy 🙂
Raneesha Manoharan
Rated Excellent
Great service, well explained, well delivered, very pleased with outcome. I would recommend to anyone.
Lee Goulden
Rated Excellent
Very happy with the service at Pinnaclear. Hafiza was absolutely lovely and explained everything clearly before, during and after the treatment. Extremely pleased with the result and can now hear clearly again. Thank you
Tracey Carey
Why our customers choose us
An PinnaClear we aim to provide an audiology service that offers a personalised and holistic approach to hearing health. We combine cutting-edge technology with experienced professionals to provide accurate treatment plans to empower individuals to fully engage in their daily lives with optimal hearing clarity.
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Why do I get ringing in my ears?Ringing in ears (or head) is also known as tinnitus. This is a sound that usually occurs inside, without an external sound source. Tinnitus can occur for a number of reasons but the most common reason people experience tinnitus is due to reduced hearing levels. The first step would be to arrange a hearing assessment.
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Do I need to soften my earwax before getting them cleaned?Unlike syringing, most people don't need soft wax for microsuction earwax removal to be successful. However, using a softening agent such as olive oil can mean a quicker and more comfortable microsuction earwax removal procedure.
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What are the common hearing loss signs and symptoms?Patients usually report difficulty in hearing conversation, particularly in busy social settings. Quite often, family and friends notice hearing difficulties first. If you feel your hearing is deteriorating, then a hearing assessment will indicate the degree of hearing loss. The audiologist will then advise on the best treatment plan for you.
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Can I get an invisible hearing aid?Hearing aids have advanced massively over the years; they are available in a range of colours and sizes. The type suitable for you will depend on a number of factors such as the shape of your ear canal and the degree of hearing loss. Your audiologist will advise on the best type of hearing aid for you, book an appointment today.
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What is microsuction earwax removal?Microsuction earwax removal is the removal of stubborn earwax using a suction device. The procedure is performed by trained professionals and involves wearing some magnifiers to make it easier to view the wax and eardrum.
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Do I need to soften the wax with olive oil before microsuction?Unlike syringing, softening earwax the same way isn’t necessary. However, it can mean the procedure is more comfortable, particularly if the wax is stuck against the ear canal.
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What is the best way to clean your ears?Ears will naturally withdraw any earwax. If you do not have any pre-existing medical ear conditions you can use a little bit of olive oil to help soften any earwax and clean your ears. If you have earwax that is causing your hearing aid to whistle or cauging you discomfort then it is best to get your ears cleaned professionally.
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How much does ear cleaning cost?The current charges at PinnaClear are £50 to £70, depending on the location and whether it is one or both ears that need cleaning. Home visits vary depending on the distance needing to be travelled.
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Is microsuction earwax removal safe?As with any medical procedure, there are always risks involved. These risks are minimised by providing an accurate medical history and booking in with an experienced, fully trained professional.
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What is the difference between going to Specsavers and coming to PinnaClear?The main difference is the level of training and experience. Quite often, the staff at Specsavers are minimally trained as hearcare assistants or hearing aid dispensers and will usually work off a checklist. At PinnaClear, all services are offered by a senior audiologist with several years of NHS and private audiology work.
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Will the wax come out by itself if I just use olive oil?Olive oil ear drops can help to soften any ear wax so that it can naturally work its way out. If there is too much earwax or the wax is hard and impacted against the ear drum, the olive oil will soften the wax and help with professional microsuction ear wax removal.
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Do hopi ear candles work?There is a misconception that hopi ear candles help to draw wax out of the ears, however, several studies have shown that this is not the case and instead hopi candles leave residue inside the ears, increasing risk of infection. There is also an increased risk of burning the ear with incorrectly performed procedures. This is also an unregulated procedure which means the risks can vary greatly.
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Is it ok to use cotton buds?The skin inside our ears is very sensitive and cotton buds peel away at the protective layer in our ears. If there is wax it can become impacted as you push wax deeper against the ear drum. This can reduce your hearing and cause pressure inside your ears.